The Student National Medical Association (SNMA), the nation’s oldest and largest independent, student-run organization focused on the needs and concerns of medical students of color is pleased to name Dr. Jo Ann Smoak, as its Executive Director. Dr. Smoak earned both a Masters in Business Administration and a PhD in Public Policy and Public Administration from Howard University, and brings to SNMA over 25 years of experience in financial management and leadership from the corporate, government and non-profit sectors.

Prior to joining SNMA, Dr. Smoak served as the chief operating officer of the Washington, DC Department of Health where she oversaw the day-to-day operations of the agency. She held executive positions in the DC Office of the Chief Financial Officer, reporting to Dr. Natwar Gandhi, which included a special assignment in the Office of Integrity and Oversight related to fiscal oversight of the DC Charter Schools. She also held executive and leadership positions in the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education.

“Few would disagree that the goal of a healthier America is one upon which we are now more focused than at any other time in our history. With the browning of America and the corresponding increases in cultural, racial and ethnic identities, SNMA is uniquely situated to address that goal, especially on behalf of those for whom access to affordable health care has historically been out of reach. I am proud to be a part of that effort,” said Dr. Smoak. “My personal interests include public health and policy issues related to the health status of minority girls and women.”

“From the start, Board members were extremely impressed by Dr. Smoak’s knowledge of our organization, health reform, health care disparities, and the importance of diversity in the medical profession. With her considerable experience in developing internal processes and controls, Dr. Smoak brings a wealth of knowledge to our organization,” said Board Chair Carmen Robinson.

Dr. Smoak’s major objectives for her first year as the Executive Director include stabilizing SNMA’s internal management and fiscal infrastructures, and expanding access to SNMA programs to a broader and even more diverse base of minority students. Additionally, Dr. Smoak seeks to expand opportunities for collaboration and support by stakeholders in the health and education communities that recognize the critically important work of SNMA as a national imperative.